Emotional Contagion in the Workplace

...or How One Person's Mood Can Affect the Well-Being of Many...

Emotional contagion in the workplace is a real phenomenon—where emotions, whether positive or negative, are transferred between individuals and influence the collective mood of the team. This concept, first recognised by psychologists in the 1980s, suggests that emotions are highly contagious, spreading like an invisible current through the people around us. The science behind this phenomenon reveals that the emotions of one individual can ripple through a team, affecting everything from productivity and morale to decision-making and communication.

The Roots of Emotional Contagion

The term emotional contagion was first introduced by researchers Elaine Hatfield, John C. Laird, and Robert J. Barsadein their foundational studies on the topic. Hatfield’s work, specifically, explored how emotions are not only felt by an individual but can also be transferred through facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language, reinforcing the shared experience within a group. Barsade’s later research, particularly focused on organisations, highlighted how positive or negative moods can impact team performance and workplace culture, underlining the importance of emotional awareness in a professional setting.

The Impact of Emotional Contagion at Work

Emotional contagion can have profound effects on productivity, morale, and overall team dynamics. When a team member is stressed or upset, these emotions can easily spread, causing widespread anxiety and a dip in performance. On the other hand, positivity and enthusiasm can energize a group, boosting engagement and fostering better collaboration.

Psychological research shows that emotional contagion doesn't just occur in face-to-face interactions. Even in remote teams, emotions can spread through digital communication. With video calls, emails, and messaging apps, individuals can still sense the emotional tone of their colleagues, even if they're miles apart. According to a study published by the Journal of Applied Psychology, leaders’ moods and emotions are particularly influential in shaping the mood of their teams. A calm and positive leader can help mitigate stress, while a negative or anxious leader can amplify these feelings throughout the team.

How Organisations Can Manage Emotional Contagion

As awareness of emotional contagion grows, more organizations are taking steps to manage the emotional climate of their workplaces. Incorporating mindfulness practices, emotional intelligence training, and well-being programs can help employees better manage their emotions and prevent negative contagion. Another powerful tool that many companies are integrating into their wellness programs is workplace massage therapy. Regular massage sessions help reduce stress, release muscle tension, and improve overall well-being, which directly combats negative emotional contagion.

Massage therapy works by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, which triggers a relaxation response and reduces stress hormones like cortisol. This relaxation helps employees reset emotionally and physically, making them better able to manage the pressures of their work environment. Research has shown that incorporating massage into the workplace can significantly boost morale, reduce absenteeism, and improve productivity by creating a more relaxed, emotionally balanced atmosphere.

Why Emotional Contagion Matters in Today's Work Environment

In a world where work environments are becoming more diverse, interconnected, and, increasingly, remote, understanding the power of emotional contagion is more important than ever. Research shows that organisations that invest in their employees’ emotional well-being see significant improvements in productivity, job satisfaction, and overall employee retention.

For example, a study by Psychology Today underscores how positive emotions can improve collaboration, decision-making, and creativity, while negative emotions can lead to disengagement and burnout. As work environments continue to evolve, organisations in the UK and beyond are increasingly adopting workplace wellness programs, such as mindfulness and massage therapy, to counteract the negative effects of emotional contagion and promote a more balanced, supportive work culture.